Legal Services Day’ observed across Kashmir
Srinagar, Nov 9: In compliance with the directions of J&K Legal Services Authority, the District Legal Services Authorities across all the districts of Kashmir on Saturday observed ‘Legal Services Day’ at their respective court complexes to promote legal awareness and ensure access to justice for all citizens, especially those from marginalised communities.
Through various initiatives and programmes, this day seeks to empower individuals with knowledge about their legal rights and promote mechanisms for conflict resolution to foster a more equitable society.
All the district courts as part of the observance of Legal Services Day had initiated a week-long series of events culminating today, demonstrating a steadfast commitment to the delivery of justice, free legal aid, and legal awareness to the citizens.
At Srinagar, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Srinagar, marked the culmination of Legal Services Week with a resounding celebration of Legal Services Day at Crescent Public School, Naseem Bagh, Srinagar.
The event was held under the guidance of Jaffer Hussain Beg, Chairman DLSA (Principal District and Sessions Judge Srinagar), and under the supervision of Nusrat Ali Hakak, Sub-Judge and Secretary of DLSA Srinagar.
Chief Guest, Sub-Judge and Secretary DLSA Srinagar delivered an impactful inaugural address, emphasizing the critical role of legal services in safeguarding the rights and freedoms of all citizens. Her speech resonated with the audience, emphasizing the need for a society that prioritises justice and equity.
Urba Rashid, Assistant Legal Aid Defence Counsel, DLSA Srinagar highlighted the significance of Legal Services Day and shed light on the eligibility criteria for accessing free legal aid services.
The highlight of the program was a captivating skit performed by DLSA Srinagar's Theatre Society ‘Awaaz,’ which focused on the essence of National Legal Services Day. Through powerful storytelling and impactful dialogue, the skit effectively conveyed the importance of legal services and their role in empowering individuals and communities.
Shabber Ahmed, Principal of Crescent Public School, also underscored the critical role of legal aid in fostering a society where justice prevails. His address emphasised the importance of educating future generations about their legal rights and responsibilities.
The programme was attended by Shakeel Ahmed Dar, Chairman of Crescent Public School; Shabber Ahmed, Principal of Crescent Public School, Touseef Ahmed, Chairman of Kashmir Concern (NGO) and active participation from students, staff members of School, officials, Legal Aid Defence Counsels and para-legal volunteers of DLSA Srinagar, showcasing their enthusiasm and commitment to promoting legal awareness and to reaffirm the importance of accessible legal aid and justice for all.
Later, Secretary DLSA, Srinagar, also visited the Legal Literacy Club at Crescent Public School as part of the nationwide observance of National Legal Services Day.
At Anantnag, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Anantnag celebrated National Legal Services Day at Town Hall Anantnag under the guidance of Tahir Khurshid Raina, Chairman DLSA (Pr. District & Sessions Judge) Anantnag.
The event highlighted the DLSA’s efforts to make legal help and awareness available to everyone in the community.
The programme began with a video showcasing the DLSA’s various awareness activities over the past year, including the range of programs conducted to spread legal knowledge and help those in need.
The event brought together a diverse group, including members from the Social Welfare Department, Bar members, Legal Aid Defense Counsel, the Chief Medical Officer along with his team, representatives from the One Stop Centre, the Child Welfare Committee, Ten Investigating Officers, students from colleges and schools, ASHA workers, and several litigants. This gathering demonstrated the community’s commitment to promoting legal awareness and cooperation.
The chief guest, Additional District and Sessions Judge Anantnag addressing the gathering explained the important work done by Legal Services Authorities in providing legal assistance and awareness to underprivileged people, helping them understand and protect their rights.
Deputy Chief Legal Aid Defense Counsel, Zakir Hussain Lone also spoke about the importance of mediation as a quicker and more peaceful way to settle disputes, showing how the Legal Services Authority is working to resolve conflicts without lengthy court battles.
The event concluded with a ceremony to recognize outstanding contributions. Zubair Ashraf was awarded for being the Best Panel Lawyer, and Khursheed Ahmad Bhat was honoured as the Best Jail Para Legal Volunteer. The DLSA also acknowledged the efforts of Zaiba Appa Institute, Ranibagh School, and the One Stop Centre Anantnag for their significant contributions to legal aid and community welfare.
Similarly, the National Legal Services Authorities Day was also observed by the Tehsil Legal Services Committee, Aishmugam.
At Budgam, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA), Budgam organized a commemorative event in celebration of Legal Services Day at the Conference Hall of the District Court Complex, Budgam.
The event was graced by the presence of the Principal District & Sessions Judge, Chairman DLSA Budgam. The event was further enriched by the participation of Judicial Officers of District Budgam, dedicated Penal Lawyers, LADCs and the hardworking Para Legal Volunteers and staff members of DLSA Budgam.
During the event, Chairman DLSA O.P Bhagat delivered a special address, emphasizing the significance of Legal Services Day. He also lauded the remarkable work accomplished by DLSA, Budgam in the year 2024.
He further stated that a series of awareness programs were organized throughout the year to create a socially aware society. These programs have reached the hearts and minds of our citizens, educating them on crucial legal and social issues such as child rights, women empowerment, and welfare schemes of the Government, the rights of senior citizens, combating drug abuse, preventing domestic violence, addressing child labour and upholding the principles of Juvenile Justice.
The series of events on National Legal Services Day stands as a testament to the tireless efforts of the entire DLSA team and their commitment to promoting the cause of justice and legal awareness.
At Ganderbal, the District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) Ganderbal today celebrated National Legal Services Day at the Conference Hall, District Court Complex Ganderbal.
The programme was attended by Abdul Nasir, Chairman DLSA Ganderbal; Sheikh Babar Hussain, Secretary DLSA Ganderbal; Mahoor, Chairperson Tehsil Legal Services Committee, Ganderbal, panel lawyers, LADCs of District Ganderbal, social activists, staff and PLVs of DLSA Ganderbal.
On the occasion, Chairman DLSA Ganderbal in his presidential address emphasized the significance of the day by highlighting the role of legal service authorities in creating awareness among the public and stressed that the work of legal services intuitions is required to be conducted with sincerity, honesty and dedication.
He encouraged LADCs, panel lawyers, and PLVs to work together to provide accessible justice to all citizens, irrespective of colour, caste and creed.
Secretary DLSA highlighted the achievements of District Legal Services Authority Ganderbal, in providing free and competent legal aid services to marginalized and vulnerable sections of society.
Panel lawyer Burjeena Hamid, underscored the importance of legal awareness, the benefits of Lok-Adalat, and the role of panel lawyers in empowering citizens to seek justice.
